Shooting Investigation
LAKELAND, FL (March 6, 2023) - On Sunday, March 5, 2023, at approximately 7:49 p.m., uniform patrol officers responded to a residence in the 700 block of Emma Street in reference to a shooting involving a juvenile. Upon arrival, officers found the victim had been transported to the hospital by a personal vehicle. Officers at the hospital reported that an 11-year-old female juvenile was admitted with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the upper leg area.
Detectives determined that the shooting occurred inside a car at the Salvation Army building, 2455 Jim Galloway Road in Lakeland. A 13-year-old juvenile was inside the car and had placed a 9mm handgun in his waistband. While doing so, the gun was accidentally discharged, and the bullet struck the leg of the victim, who was seated next to him in the car.
The 13-year-old suspect, who was on probation, was arrested and charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Delinquent (F2), Carrying a Concealed Firearm (F3), Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Persons Under 18 (M1), and Culpable Negligence (M1). A firearm was also located and collected by detectives.
The name of the victim is being withheld in accordance with Marsy's Law. This remains an open investigation and no additional information is available at this time.